For the first time in a while, the Dallas Stars have an unstoppable scorer, and that has changed their offensive identity.

Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck lays by the net as Dallas Stars' Sam Steel (18) and the rest of the line celebrate a goal scored by Alexander Petrovic, in pile against the boards, in the third period of Game 3 of a second-round NHL hockey playoff series in Dallas, Sunday, May 11, 2025. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) AP

It was a heck of a Mother’s Day celebration for the Dallas Stars crowd because just about every day around here is Mikko’s Day.

The Avalanche first dealt Rantanen, a 2022 Stanley Cup champion while sharing the ice with Kadri, in January to the Carolina Hurricanes before he forced a trade-deadline move to the Stars. Immediately following his trade to Dallas, the Stars signed him to an eight-year, $96 million contract extension —a deal Colorado reportedly refused to match.

Roope Hintz had a goal and an assist for the Stars, and Wyatt Johnston added a late goal. Sam Steel and Mikael Granlund each had two assists.

Rantanen played 19 minutes, 8 seconds. Wyatt Johnston had more ice time. Three Jets forwards played more than 22 minutes. DeBoer may be forced to overskate defensemen due to roster construction, but the Stars remain very democratic up front.

Mikko Rantanen picked up right where he left off after the first round when the Dallas Stars took on the Winnipeg Jets on Wednesday.